COMPARATIVE OUTCOMES OF LAPAROSCOPIC VERSUS OPEN SURGERY ON RECOVERY, IMMUNE FUNCTION, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE: IMPLICATIONS FOR ATHLETIC HEALTH

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic versus open surgery in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), focusing on the surgical impact on immune function, recovery, and quality of life, with specific attention to implications for athletes. Methods: Between March 2017 and March 2022, 86 IBD patients treated at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those undergoing open surgery (control group, n=43) and those undergoing laparoscopic surgery (observation group, n=43). We compared intraoperative and postoperative recovery metrics, oxidative stress levels, immune function markers, serum inflammatory factors, disease activity, clinical outcomes, complication rates, defecation function scores, and quality of life assessments between the groups. Results: The laparoscopic group exhibited significantly lower intraoperative blood loss, shorter incision lengths, and faster recovery of intestinal function and hospital stay compared to the control group (P<0.05). Postoperative measurements showed higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and CD3+, CD4+ T-cell counts, and lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and CD4+/CD8+ ratios in the observation group. Furthermore, lower levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and clinical activity scores (Mayo score and CDAI) were noted shortly after surgery in the laparoscopic group, along with a higher overall treatment success rate and better postoperative quality of life as measured by the IBDQ score (P<0.05). The complication rate and postoperative defecation function score were also favorably lower. Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgery for IBD not only enhances clinical recovery but also better preserves immune function and improves quality of life outcomes compared to open surgery. These findings are crucial for athletes, where rapid recovery, maintained immune function, and minimal downtime are essential for a quick return to training and competition. The adoption of laparoscopic techniques in treating athlete-related health issues could represent a significant advance in sports medicine.